
2018 Bora and Bora Legend differ in configuration, body size, and engine. Below are the specific details: Different configurations: The equipment varies; the Bora Legend Fashion Trend model is equipped with 16-inch wheels, while the 2018 Bora comes with 17-inch wheels. Different body sizes: The Bora Legend measures 4562mm in length, 1793mm in width, and 1468mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2614mm; the 2018 Bora measures 4663mm in length, 1815mm in width, and 1462mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2688mm. Different engines: The 2018 Bora offers multiple powertrain options, with the 1.5L model featuring the EA211-DCF engine; the Bora Legend only has one powertrain option, the 1.5L model with the EA211-DLF engine.

Last year when I changed cars, I carefully compared these two models. The 2018 Bora is a completely redesigned model built on Volkswagen's MQB platform, featuring larger body dimensions with a 74mm increase in wheelbase, making the rear seating noticeably more spacious. The front fascia has a more aggressive design, with LED daytime running lights as standard across the range, and the wheel designs are more contemporary. On the other hand, the Bora Legend is essentially a continuation of the previous generation, using the older PQ34 platform, with the exterior and interior largely retaining the classic design, and it's about twenty to thirty thousand yuan cheaper. Personally, I found the new Bora's steering wheel to be lighter and it offers better cornering support, though the Legend version is indeed cheaper to maintain and repair.

As someone who spends years in automotive forums, the first difference lies in the electronic architecture. The 2018 Bora comes with an MIB infotainment system that supports smartphone mirroring, while higher trims feature automatic climate control and rain-sensing wipers. Safety upgrades include tire pressure monitoring and ESP stability control. The Bora Legend has much more basic configurations, retaining the old four-spoke steering wheel, manual AC knobs, and lower-grade seat fabrics. Though the new Bora's 1.5L engine shows similar specs on paper, its start-stop technology reduces urban fuel consumption by about 0.5L/100km. If budget allows, go for the new model—its driving refinement is noticeably superior.

These two models are commonly seen in repair shops, with the main differences lying in the chassis. The new Bora uses a torsion beam + Watt's linkage for the rear suspension, providing a softer ride over speed bumps. The Legend version simply has a torsion beam, resulting in more noticeable bumps on rough roads. During disassembly, it was found that the new model has a more organized wiring harness layout, and the fuse box position has been redesigned. Although both engines are called EA211, the new version features upgraded cylinder block material for better heat dissipation. The transmission matching has also been optimized, with feedback from old owners indicating that the low-speed jerkiness of the new dual-clutch transmission has been significantly reduced. However, the Legend version's parts are 30% cheaper, making maintenance much more affordable.


